Trolley Crisis Deepens In Wexford And Beyond

Hospitals across Ireland, including Wexford, are grappling with extreme overcrowding as hundreds of patients are left waiting for beds. Demand, driven by flu and chronic illnesses, has led to one of the worst days in months, with 523 patients on trolleys and over 800 others moved to assessment units. The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) reports that patients are being placed in areas without essential equipment, like oxygen, further compromising care. Wexford Hospital is among the affected, with beds in high demand - there were 26 people waiting for beds as of yesterday (Monday January 12th) INMO General Secretary Phil Ní Sheaghdha has called for urgent action from the HSE to prioritise emergency care and cancel non-urgent procedures for the coming week. As hospital systems buckle under pressure, the public is urged to seek alternatives to emergency departments, including local pharmacies and GPs. The crisis shows no sign of easing, with the HSE acknowledging that increased demand and flu outbreaks are pushing hospitals to their limits.